From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has honoured its retiring Deputy Comptroller-General (DCG), Musa Omale, with the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, and members of the Management Team paying glowing tributes to his years of dedicated service, professionalism, and invaluable contributions to the Service.
According to a statement issued by the NCS in Abuja, the ceremony, held recently at the Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, brought together senior officers who reflected on the retiring officer’s distinguished career and enduring legacy.
Speaking at the event, CGC Adeniyi said the Service’s tradition of celebrating officers at retirement provides an opportunity to share goodwill messages, offer guidance, and recognise their contributions as they begin a new phase of life.
He described DCG Omale as an officer renowned for his love of books, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to personal development.
Reflecting on the importance of legacy in public service, Adeniyi noted that officers are remembered by the impact of their actions and conduct throughout their careers.
“When we are in service, we leave imprints and footprints because we never know how people will make reference to them later,” Adeniyi said.
He advised the retiring officer to exercise caution in future investments and engagements, warning against ventures that are not properly understood.
He also prayed for good health and continued opportunities for Omale to contribute to national development.
Deputy Comptroller-General Timi Bomodi recalled meeting Omale 35 years ago when they both arrived in Port Harcourt as attachés, describing him as an officer whose character remained consistent throughout his career.
According to Bomodi, the retiring officer distinguished himself through humility, intellect, and dependability, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues across the Service.
“You have remained yourself all through. You are reliable and dependable, and your word is your bond,” Bomodi said.
The Director of Legal Services, Smart Akande, also reflected on their time together in Port Harcourt, where they worked on prosecution matters.
He described Omale as articulate, diligent, and reserved, noting that his cooperation contributed significantly to the successful handling of several cases.
“I will not be surprised if he becomes a professor after retirement,” Akande remarked.
Similarly, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Nafiu Isiaku commended Omale’s passion for learning, attention to detail, commitment to excellence, and willingness to mentor younger officers.
Other speakers noted that despite attaining senior ranks in the Service, Omale remained approachable, disciplined, and dedicated to knowledge-sharing.
Responding, DCG Omale expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General, members of the Management Team, and colleagues for the honour bestowed on him.
He described himself as a calm and patient individual who approaches life steadily and attributed his interest in academia to experiences gained during his early years in the Service.
The retired DCG also recalled representing his superior at a board meeting at a relatively young age, describing the experience as a defining moment in his professional journey.
Omale pledged to remain available whenever called upon to support the Service and commended the Comptroller-General of Customs for his inclusive and listening leadership style.
